Army to start phasing out Cheetah, Chetak helicopters from 2027

Source: The post is based on the article “Army to start phasing out Cheetah, Chetak helicopters from 2027” published in “The Hindu” on 23rd October 2023

What is the News?

The Army will start phasing out the Cheetah and Chetak helicopters from 2027.

They plan to replace these helicopters with indigenous light utility helicopters(LUHs).

What is Chetak Helicopter?

The Chetak Helicopter is a two ton class helicopter.It is a versatile, multi role, multi purpose and spacious helicopter.

It is designed for seven seaters (two pilots and five passengers). 

Manufactured by: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

What is a Cheetah?

Cheetah is a five seater helicopter.It is a high performance helicopter designed for operation over a very wide range of weight, center of gravity and altitude conditions.

It holds the world record in high altitude flying among all categories of Helicopters.

Manufactured by: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

What is Indigenous light utility helicopters(LUHs)?

LCH is the first indigenous Multi-Role Combat Helicopter.

Designed and developed by: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

Specifications:

– Maximum take-off weight: 3,100 kg.

– Can carry a useful load of 1,500 kg.

– Maximum speed: 220 km/h, cruise speed: 200 km/h.

– Service ceiling (maximum altitude it can reach): 6,500 meters.

Range: Approximately 500 km.

Features: It has potent ground attack and aerial combat capability.

– Equipped with a 3-axis autopilot for stable and controlled flight in various conditions.

– Features a modern glass cockpit with digital avionics and instrumentation.

– Includes a weather radar system for real-time weather information.

– Cockpit lighting works with night-vision goggles for low-visibility conditions.